YBS to continue backing Terriers’ youth academy

A PARTNERSHIP between Yorkshire Building Society and Huddersfield Town will continue for an 11th season.

Since 2002, Yorkshire Building Society has donated one per cent of the total cash balances in all Terriers accounts, to be used for youth development at the club.

In the first year, it raised £71,094, and last season achieved £71,892, slightly down on the impressive 2010-11 season total of £91,980.

Huddersfield Town academy manager Mark Lillis said: “The money that the academy receives through the Terriers Account is invaluable to us.

“Affinity relationships like these are key to the academy’s future as they allow us to provide excellent facilities for up and coming players.”

Among the players who have benefited from the money, progressing through the academy to reach the first team, are Jonathan Stead, Alex Smithies and Jack Hunt.

Business development manager Mark Davies said: “I would like to say a big thank you to every Town fan that has helped to support the academy financially by opening and saving in a Terriers acc- ount.”

Mike Helliwell, YBS savings product manager and Hudderfield Town season ticket holder, added: “We’re delighted to have supported Town for another year and are continuing to offer fans another way of supporting their favourite team through the Terriers account.

“It’s great to see the contribution from the account aid the development of new talent through the academy and we wish Town all the best for the new season back in the Championship.”